A review by livinliterary
I'll Be Waiting by Kelley Armstrong

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Kelley Armstrong delivers another gripping read with I'll Be Waiting, a fast-paced horror novel that masterfully combines suspense and character development. From the very first page, the book hooks you with an electrifying opening and doesn’t let go, even as the pace slows just enough to dive into the backstory. Armstrong balances this beautifully, weaving in flashbacks and memories that add depth while keeping the tension high and the reader engaged. 

Even when the outcome seemed predictable, I found it nearly impossible to put the book down. By the halfway mark, the story had me completely captivated, with its twists and turns keeping me guessing until the very end. The conclusion was both satisfying and surprising, wrapping up loose ends while delivering a shocking twist that left me stunned. The creeping unease Armstrong maintained throughout made it a true standout in the horror genre. 

While the ending was well-crafted, I did feel the final portion of the book was slightly rushed. That said, it didn’t detract much from my overall enjoyment. Armstrong’s ability to create a sense of dread while also crafting complex, relatable characters kept me immersed from start to finish. 

This is a must-read for horror fans who love a fast-paced, character-driven story with an eerie atmosphere. Just be sure to read it with the lights on!